Historic Sites of Manitoba: Early Skyscrapers in Winnipeg Plaque (456 Main Street, Winnipeg)

The skyscraper was a by-product of technological advances and increased urbanization of the late 19th century. Steel frame construction, the elevator and rising land values made multi-storeyed buildings structurally and economically feasible. Between 1900 and 1916, twelve skyscrapers were built in Winnipeg, imposing on the city the verticality and high density of a modern urban core. All were monolithic structures decorated in a variety of styles. The classicized Bank of Hamilton (1916) and the Italianate style of the Union Trust (1912), located directly across the street, typify Winnipeg’s early skyscrapers. This plaque, installed in 1980 by the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, is situated south of the Bank of Toronto Building at 456 Main Street.

Early skyscrapers in Winnipeg commemorative plaque (2009) Source: City of Winnipeg Site Coordinates (lat/long): N49.89730, W97.13919 denoted by symbol on the map above

See also:

Historic Sites of Manitoba: Union Bank Building (504 Main Street, Winnipeg)

Historic Sites of Manitoba: Manitoba Plaques for Persons, Events and Sites of National Historic Significance

Sources:

Information for this page was provided by The City of Winnipeg’s Planning, Property and Development Department, which acknowledges the contribution of the Government of Manitoba through its Heritage Grants Program.

This page was prepared by Gordon Goldsborough.

Page revised: 15 August 2019

Historic Sites of Manitoba This is a collection of historic sites in Manitoba compiled by the Manitoba Historical Society. The information is offered for historical interest only. SEARCH the collection Browse lists of: Museums/Archives | Buildings | Monuments | Cemeteries | Locations | Other Inclusion in this collection does not confer special status or protection. Official heritage designation may only come from municipal, provincial, or federal governments. Some sites are on private property and permission to visit must be secured from the owner. Site information is provided by the Manitoba Historical Society as a free public service only for non-commercial purposes. Send corrections and additions to this page to the MHS Webmaster at webmaster@mhs.mb.ca. Search Tips | Suggest an Historic Site | FAQ Help us keep history alive!